Anthony Joshua
- Name: Anthony Oluwafemi Olaseni Joshua
- Birthdate: 15 October 1989
- Birthplace: Watford
- Occupation: Boxer
Anthony Oluwafemi Olaseni Joshua was born on 15 October 1989 in Watford, Hertfordshire, England. His mother is Nigerian, and his father is of Nigerian and Irish descent. Joshua spent part of his early years in Nigeria, attending Mayflower School in Ikenne. Following his parents' divorce, he returned to the UK at age 12 and attended Kings Langley Secondary School. Known as "Femi" to his friends, Joshua excelled in football and athletics during his school years.
Amateur career and Olympic success
Joshua began boxing in 2007 at the age of 18. He quickly rose through the amateur ranks, winning the ABA Championships in 2010 and 2011. His amateur career culminated in winning a gold medal in the super-heavyweight division at the 2012 London Olympics, representing Great Britain.
Professional career and world titles
Joshua turned professional in 2013, making his debut with a first-round TKO victory over Emanuele Leo. He won his first world title in April 2016, defeating Charles Martin to claim the IBF heavyweight championship. Joshua unified the WBA (Super) and IBO titles by defeating Wladimir Klitschko in April 2017 in a bout that was named Fight of the Year.
He successfully defended his titles against Carlos Takam, Joseph Parker, and Alexander Povetkin. In June 2019, Joshua suffered his first professional loss to Andy Ruiz Jr. He regained his titles in a rematch in December 2019.
Recent fights and current status
In September 2021, Joshua lost his titles to Oleksandr Usyk via unanimous decision. A rematch in August 2022 resulted in a split decision loss for Joshua.
Joshua returned to winning ways with victories over Jermaine Franklin in April 2023 and Robert Helenius in August 2023. In March 2024, he faced former UFC champion Francis Ngannou, winning via second-round knockout.
However, in September 2024, Joshua faced Daniel Dubois for the IBF heavyweight title and suffered a fifth-round knockout loss.
Professional record
As of September 2024, Anthony Joshua's professional boxing record stands at 28 wins (25 by knockout) and 4 losses.
